Carol Faye Kjesbo, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on October 19, 2023, at the age of 77. She was born on May 2, 1946, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, to her parents, Ole and Violet (Christopherson) Breivold.
Carol’s educational journey began at Oklee High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1964. She then pursued her love for music at Moorhead State College, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. She was also President of her sorority, Sigma Alpha Iota. During her college years, she met the love of her life, Lee Alan Kjesbo, and their beautiful love story unfolded. They were married on August 10, 1968, in Oklee, MN, and their union would become an enduring testament to love and partnership.
She began her teaching career in Hawley, MN, and her family journeyed to different places, including Moorhead, Littlefork-Big Falls, and Maple Lake, before settling down in Buffalo, Minnesota. She shared her love of music through both her classroom teaching career as well as private piano lessons, leaving an indelible mark on countless students for over 40 years.
In addition to her teaching career, Carol also owned “Creations by Carol,” a floral and gift shop in Buffalo. Her incredible talent as a florist shone brightly, and her floral arrangements brought joy to many patrons who visited her shop.
Carol had a generous heart and a deep love for her community. She dedicated 12 years to volunteering at Lake Ridge, where she loved to play and sing for the residents. She was also an active member of the Maple Lake Jaycees and served as its President at one point. Carol shared her beautiful voice in the church choir at Zion, where she was a longtime member.
Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds. She was known for her baking, especially her holiday cookies. Carol and Lee spread joy through the town, delivering the cookies and other goodies to the police and fire departments, local businesses, and to many friends and family.
In her leisure time, Carol was an avid reader, a puzzle enthusiast, and enjoyed going on walks. Her social, warm personality made her the heart of every gathering. She touched the lives of many, leaving a mark on those fortunate enough to know her.
Carol cherished her roles as a devoted wife, a loving mother, and beloved grandmother. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. Her unwavering support and affection has had a tremendous impact on their lives. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Ole and Violet Breivold, and her beloved uncle, Albert ”Unkie” Breivold.
She is survived by the love of her life, Lee; children, Missy (Tim) Duffy, Mark (Lisa Janzen) Kjesbo, Molly (Omry) Ravid, and Melanie (Peter) Christmas; her cherished grandchildren, Noah, Cade, Keegan, Finnegan, Macgregor, Hugo, Theodore, and Violetta; brother, Ron (Christy) Breivold; and numerous nieces, nephews, and Friends.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 12:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM, at Zion Lutheran Church in Buffalo, MN.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com